Warriors back on track

Track and field is about to leap into action once again at Del Norte High.

Track and field coach Scott Lindsay says several team members have the potential to make some noise this year and is excited with the potential of this year's squad.

Despite nasty, rainy weather through most of February, which has affected practices on many days, they are still practicing "pretty much everyday."

"It's frustrating, but you can't do much about it," Lindsay said.

He said he has been impressed with the dedication of the majority of his team to prepare for the upcoming season.

"They just want to get better," he said. "All we have to do is guide them."

The Warriors begin the season on Saturday, when eight team members head to Concord for the Del La Salle Track Meet.

With track and field being such an individual sport, Lindsay said it's vital for the participant to have the desire inside to do the best they can and strive to get better.

Having so many people like that on the team is a nice luxury to have, Lindsay said.

One team member that has already made a lot of noise is junior Kelsy Hintz.

Last year, she made it to state in the pole vault and finished in fifth place, the first Warrior to place in state in track and field.

In January, she participated at the National Pole Vault Summit in Reno, Nev.

Besides the pole vault, she also competes in sprints.

Despite the previous accolades, Lindsay said he thinks she can surpass last year's accomplishments.

"I think she'll only get better," he said. "She's a hard worker and wants to get better."

What makes her such a strong competitor is Hintz is very mentally strong and does not lose focus, even when something does not go as planned, her coach said,

Senior Bryce Lund, who won four events last year at the Big 5 Conference league Champion-ships returns.

Lindsay said Lund battled some injuries last year and is looking forward to what he can do when healthy.

Events Lund excels at includes the high jump and different sprinting events.

Lindsay said Lund is a stellar athlete that is also a hard worker who strives to succeed.

Sophomore Taylor Duncan is full of potential, Lindsay said. Last year, as a freshman, he was the state leader among freshman in the pole vault.

He said Duncan is a "good listener," who has improved from last year and with continued hard work should do well at meets this year.

Others track and field members this year include junior Bailee McCulloch, who is a sprinter and is "very fast," Lindsay said. Jessica Slayton competes in the high jump and Lindsay believes she can improve on her best jump of 5 feet 2 inches from last year. Two more inches and she would have qualified for state.

Rachel Cink will compete in events such as hurdles and shot putt. Her sister, Rebecca, competes in several events, including the 800 meter relay.

Lindsay said both sisters have good athletic ability and should do well this year for Del Norte.

Lindsay hopes the team will be competitive this year and that once the cold and wet winter weather clears up, more girls will sign up.